Content tagged with "Reptiles and Amphibians"

These attractively spotted frogs are excellent jumpers and quickly leap into water when startled. The males’ chuckling calls entertain outdoors enthusiasts even as they function to attract females for breeding.

This handsome snake is generally black, but a white or yellow spot in the center of most of the scales causes it to look speckled. The belly is yellowish with some irregular black markings. Like the rest of our kingsnakes, this species vibrates its tail when alarmed.

Their voices a true announcement of spring, these small, slender frogs can be several overall colors, but the X on the back is a good way to ensure your identification.

This glossy “black snake” is one of Missouri’s largest and most familiar snakes. It size and often deep-black color makes it seem imposing, but it is as harmless to humans as it is bad news for rodents!